A mesoporous metal–organic framework based on a shape-persistent macrocycle

Abstract

A mesoporous Zn-based metal–organic framework (MOF) was prepared from a shape-persistent phenylene ethynylene macrocycle functionalized with three –COOH groups. The rigid ligand has a ∼9 Å wide central cavity which serves as a predesigned pore. The macrocycles [π⋯π] stack into pairs, with their carboxylate groups connected via three Zn₃O₁₄C₆H₂ clusters. The resulting MOF has a void volume of 86%.